Empowering People with Disabilities through Independent Living - DHS 4041

Independent Living

The Illinois Department of Human Services' Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) fully embraces the belief that independent living means people with disabilities have the right to control their lives by making informed choices that enable them to actively participate in all aspects of society.

Through the Independent Living Program, DRS funds a statewide network of Centers for Independent Living that provides accessible programs and services designed to help all people with disabilities live more independently.

Centers for Independent Living are:

Not-for-profit organizations

Consumer-controlled organizations

Managed by persons with disabilities

Non-residential organizations

Community-based organizations

Centers for Independent Living must offer:

Advocacy

Peer counseling

Information and referral services

Independent living skills training

Other services Centers for Independent Living may offer include:

Community reintegration programs

Personal assistance programs

Housing services

Accessibility services

Job readiness training

Youth programs

Clearly, Centers for Independent Living are not social service agencies - they are agents for social change.

To locate the Center for Independent Living nearest you, call the DRS Independent Living Unit:

_______I would like more information about Independent Living services and CILs.

Illinois Department of Human Services

Division of Rehabilitation Services

Independent Living Unit

100 South Grand Avenue East

P.O. Box 19429

Springfield, Illinois 62794-9429

Programs, activities and employment opportunities in the Illinois Department of Human Services are open and accessible to any individual or group without regard to age, sex, race, sexual orientation, disability, ethnic origin or religion. The department is an equal opportunity employer and practices affirmative action and reasonable accommodation programs.

DHS 4041 (R-06-13) DRS/Independent Living Printed by Authority of the State of Illinois 5000 copies P.O.#13-1686